Welcome to Portland, Oregon, Your New Home

Considering a move to Portland, Oregon? You’re not alone. For decades, people from across the U.S. have chosen to call this region home. One glimpse at its dramatic array of snowcapped volcanic peaks and its everpresent and astounding greenery, and its no wonder that so many have decided to move to Oregon and, specifically, relocate to Portland.

Portland’s strong local economy, close proximity to nature and forward-thinking approach to city planning make it a great destination for all types. Whether bustling and modern or laid-back and pedestrian, every neighborhood has easy access to fantastic dining and entertainment options.

Neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon

The traditional heart of Portland is located in the center of the city’s west side at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The popular public square was designed as the hub for the city’s MAX light rail system and is perhaps the easiest place in town to get to or from.

Just north of Old Town, a similar but more sedate neighborhood that’s home to world-famous Voodoo Donuts, you’ll find Portland’s hottest residential and commercial neighborhood – the Portland Pearl District. Redeveloped from old warehouses and industrial sites, the Pearl now features soaring glass apartments, condos and office towers overlooking newly built parks and busy streetcar lines.

While the rest of Portland’s neighborhoods west of the river are either vintage, high-end and hilly (West Hills/Nob Hill) or narrow riverfront patches undergoing exciting redevelopment (Southwest Portland), neighborhoods on the city’s east side are generally more spread out and residential.

Defined by their main thoroughfares, Northeast Portland’s Alberta and Mississippi districts are trendy local hotspots with strong cafe, gallery culture, and music scenes.

Moving southward you’ll find the upscale, oddly arranged neighborhoods of Laurelhurst and Ladd’s Addition. Both break from the city’s standard street grid format and are exceptionally walkable. These neighborhoods abound with beautiful old craftsman homes and aged tree-lined lanes.

Most modern redevelopment on the east side has occurred closer to the river in an area known as the Lloyd District.